Organizational Setting

FAO, in cooperation with the Government of Malawi and with funding from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), is implementing the project Ecosystem-based Adaptation for Resilient Watersheds and Communities in Malawi (EbAM).  The project aims to enhance the climate resilience of vulnerable ecosystems and communities through integrated watershed planning and management, investment in diversified agricultural value chains, agricultural and agroforestry systems and institutional capacity consistent with Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) approaches.  The potential for ecosystems to support the sustainable production of commodities, goods and services for subsistence and commercial use by individual farmers, farmer groups and MSMEs will be enhanced. The project will be implemented in 11 districts in Malawi over a period of 6 years, benefitting over 500,000 vulnerable people in rural communities, restoring, conserving or improving the management of over 250,000 ha of land and achieving net emission reductions or removals of 2.75 MtCO2e within the lifetime of project interventions.

Reporting Lines

The Communications Specialist will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative (FAOR) in Malawi and the direct supervision of the CTA of EbAM project, in close coordination with all relevant unit in the country office, including Programme, Operations, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning, Procurement and Administration, to ensure coordinated workflows and timely delivery of outputs.  

Technical Focus

The Communications Specialist will function as the Communications focal point for the FAO Malawi country office.  Specifically, in collaboration with the project teams, the incumbent will provide technical and advisory support for the development and implementation of the Communication Strategy of EbAM and other projects.

Tasks and responsibilities

In close collaboration with Office of Communications (OCC) branches and appropriate Communication focal points, the incumbent will:
•     Study and apply all relevant FAO communication and publishing guidelines, demonstrating a strong understanding of FAO publishing standards and producing high-quality content with minimal need for revision.
•     Design and implement communication and advocacy strategies tailored to the country context of Malawi, the project context of EbAM, as appropriate, and aligned with CPF priorities and FAO’s Strategic Framework.
•     Support the EbAM and other project teams with strategic communication and visibility actions.
•     Produce knowledge-sharing materials, presentations, and campaigns to promote positive behaviour change and demonstrate impact. 
•     Develop Terms of Reference (TORs) and oversee and monitor service providers engaged to deliver communication outputs for EbAM and other projects under the FAO Malawi country office.
•     Develop high-quality content (articles, success stories, multimedia products) that reflects EbAM and other project objectives and results, FAO’s mandate and ensures consistent messaging and branding.
•     Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, influencers, and strategic partners.
•     Manage digital platforms and social media channels to enhance EbAM and other project visibility, FAO’s visibility and audience engagement.
•     Strengthen local capacity for internal and external communication through training, coaching, and mentoring.
•     Coordinate communication workflows with Programme, Operations, Monitoring and Evaluation, Procurement, and Administration units.
•     Liaise with FAO corporate communication structures, the UN Communication Group, and partners’ communication teams.
•     Ensure that all communication outputs comply with FAO guidelines, branding standards, and clearance procedures.
•     Monitor, document, and report on communication activities, visibility achievements, and outreach impact.
•     Perform other related duties as required

FAO Standards and guidelines:

•     Liaison with OCC will be maintained, either directly or through an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes. 
•     All communication materials will follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards, including: 
FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31: https://www.fao.org/strategic-framework/en    
FAO social media policy and guidelines: https://www.fao.org/2/socialmedia    
Social Media Branding Guidelines: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb5044en   
FAOSTYLE https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb8081en    
FAO terminology http://www.fao.org/faoterm    
FAO Names of Countries https://www.fao.org/nocs/en       
Story guidelines, Story template, UN map standards, FAO logo policy and related branding guidelines (available to staff). 
•     Further guidance regarding FAO communications, policies and procedures can be found through the FAO intranet, OCC section.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements    

•     Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in communication, social sciences, economics, international relations, international development or any other discipline relevant to the work of the organization. Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
•     5 years of relevant work experience in communication and media, preferably in areas related to climate change, food security, agriculture, natural resources, economics, or sustainable development. 
•     Working knowledge (level C) of English.

FAO Core Competencies

•     Results Focus
•     Teamwork
•     Communication
•     Building Effective Relationships
•     Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•     At least 3 years of relevant experience working in sub-Saharan Africa; experience in Malawi is an asset.
•     Experience working with development projects, international organizations, UN agencies, or NGOs.
•     Experience in multi-country, multi-stakeholder, or decentralized settings is an asset.
•     Strong research and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex issues in a clear and accessible manner.
•     Demonstrated experience in planning, designing, and implementing communication and advocacy campaigns.
•     Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including social media management, web content management systems, and analytics tools.
•     Experience using AI-powered tools for content creation, social media optimization, and data-driven communication strategies.
•     Knowledge of SEO, digital marketing trends, and multimedia production (graphics, video, audio).
•     Ability to use data visualization and reporting tools to monitor and assess communication impact.
•     Strong computer skills, including proficiency in standard office software and digital collaboration tools.